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Model specific boards => Golf mk5 => Topic started by: 08micsta on 21 October 2008, 10:25

Title: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: 08micsta on 21 October 2008, 10:25
http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=3552517

Is this one legal or illegal?

Pity TT aint here to yell and scream  :evil:.

Mike
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Top Cat on 21 October 2008, 10:29
Funny you should mention that, this guy popped up Yesterday, i know there not the same but there is a bit of a discussion on the legality.


                           http://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=95314.0
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Greenouse on 21 October 2008, 10:31
http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=3552517

Is this one legal or illegal?

Pity TT aint here to yell and scream  :evil:.

Mike


Can't make out from the pics, but the only legal issue may be the lack of headlight washers as this is a legal requirement (in the UK anyway) with Xenon lighting.
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: 08micsta on 21 October 2008, 10:37
Thats what I thought...

In SA we can have Xenons without the washers too. So illegal for the UK and legal for the rest of the world? Interesting.

Mike
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Jkctr on 21 October 2008, 10:46
After market HIDs are not illegal as long as they pass the beam alignment test.

Washers are also not a legal requirement when fitted after it has left the factory. The washers are only required on cars that are built in factories (so standard xenons that come with the car) You cant fail an MOT for something you do not have to test, a good example is the spare tyre in some cars; if its bold just take it out before the test, if they cant check its bold they cant fail you!

I have aftermarket HIDs and it flew through the MOT last week. Its now passed in a Honda garage and my local garage.
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Greenouse on 21 October 2008, 11:07
After market HIDs are not illegal as long as they pass the beam alignment test.

Washers are also not a legal requirement when fitted after it has left the factory. The washers are only required on cars that are built in factories (so standard xenons that come with the car) You cant fail an MOT for something you do not have to test, a good example is the spare tyre in some cars; if its bold just take it out before the test, if they cant check its bold they cant fail you!

I have aftermarket HIDs and it flew through the MOT last week. Its now passed in a Honda garage and my local garage.

Horney posted this in a similar debat yesterday  :wink:

Fact sheet: Aftermarket HID headlamps
December 2006
In the Department's view it is not legal to sell or use after market HID lighting kits, for converting conventional Halogen headlamps to HID Xenon. If a customer wants to convert his vehicle to Xenon HID he must purchase completely new Xenon HID headlamps. The reason for this is that the existing lens and reflector are designed around a Halogen filament bulb, working to very precise tolerances. If one places a HID "burner" (bulb) in the headlamp, the beam pattern will not be correct, there will be glare in some places and not enough light in other places within the beam pattern.

The following is the legal rationale:

The Road Vehicle Lighting Regulations 1989 regulate the situation in the UK.
Under these Regulations, HID/Gas Discharge/Xenon headlamps are not mentioned and therefore they are not permitted according to the strict letter of the law.

However new vehicles have HID headlamps. This is because they comply to European type approval Regulations. The UK cannot refuse to register a vehicle with a European type approval. These are to ECE Regulation 98 (for the HID headlamps which are tested on a rig in a laboratory) and ECE Regulation 48 (Lighting Installation on the vehicle).

For the after market, a used vehicle cannot obtain type approval because it is only applicable for new vehicles. However we feel that saying "HID is banned in the after market" would not be reasonable. Instead we should make analogies with new vehicles. It would be reasonable to require HID in the after market to meet the same safety standards as on new vehicles. The same level of safety should apply.

Therefore a HID headlamp unit sold in the after market should:

1. be type approved to ECE Regulation 98 as a component.

2. when fitted to the vehicle should enable ECE Regulation 48 to be complied with (although no government inspection will take place).

3. Comply with RVLR as far as "use" is concerned.

In practice this means:

1. The headlamp unit (outer lens, reflector, bulb) shall be type approved to ECE 98 and be "e-marked" to demonstrate this. That can only be done by the headlamp supplier - Hella, Valeo etc. who must test the headlamp in an independent laboratory.

2. Once fitted to the vehicle it must have headlamp cleaning and self-levelling (which can be for the headlamp or can be in the vehicle suspension - some expensive estate cars have "self-levelling suspension" and that is adequate). Also the dipped beam must stay on with the main beam.

3. The headlamp must be maintained in good working order, kept clean, and aligned/adjusted correctly like any other headlamp.

Under the Road Traffic Act 1988 it is an offence to supply, fit or use vehicle parts which are not legal.

In summary it is not permitted to convert an existing halogen headlamp unit for use with HID bulbs. The entire headlamp unit must be replaced with one designed and approved for use with HID bulbs and it must be installed in accordance with the rules stated above.

If you require any further information regarding the regulations covered by this fact sheet, please contact the DfT at the address below:

Transport Technology and Standards 6
Department for Transport
Zone 2/04
Great Minster House
76 Marsham Street
London
SW1P 4DR

Telephone: 020 7944 2078
Fax: 020 7944 2196
Email: TTS.enquiries@dft.gsi.gov.uk
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Horney on 21 October 2008, 11:09
The main point is the self leveling. Badly adjusted normal lights are annoying, badly adjusted after market HID's are a danger to other drivers. This is why don't want them fitted in the aftermarket. There is nothing stopping them comin gout of adjustment and being a danger between MOT's. Also the lenses need to be correct for HID otherwise the beam pattern is wrong and worse case they melt.

99% of the time you can fit them to anything and you'll be fine but I understand why they don't want them fitted to any old car.

Nick
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: 2007GTI on 21 October 2008, 11:13
yes there should be a self leveling piece of kit on the rear axle, which all OEM Xenon have to have, as for washers, not the end of the world.
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Teutonic_Tamer on 21 October 2008, 11:15
http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=3552517

Is this one legal or illegal?

Pity TT aint here to yell and scream  :evil:.

Mike


As others have stated, providing it has the headlamp washers, and the headlamps are the proper OEM units specifically designed for the HID bulbs (which it seems they are) - then they are legal.  :smiley:

Oh, and the auto leveling system is correctly calibrated.  :wink:
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: 08micsta on 21 October 2008, 11:18
Intersting.

Quick question. Why does the UK have it as a law that washers must be present? Do you know?

Mike
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Greenouse on 21 October 2008, 11:22
http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=3552517

Is this one legal or illegal?

Pity TT aint here to yell and scream  :evil:.

Mike


As others have stated, providing it has the headlamp washers, and the headlamps are the proper OEM units specifically designed for the HID bulbs (which it seems they are) - then they are legal.  :smiley:

Oh, and the auto leveling system is correctly calibrated.  :wink:

Welcome back Mr T_T  :smiley:
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Teutonic_Tamer on 21 October 2008, 11:23
Thats what I thought...

In SA we can have Xenons without the washers too. So illegal for the UK and legal for the rest of the world? Interesting.

Mike

Mike, I thought that South Africa, just like Australia and New Zealand actually used the European "Type Approval" systems, just like they use the same EuroNCAP crash test standards.?
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: 08micsta on 21 October 2008, 11:32
I dont actually know. But would that mean that technically our car is illegal?
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Teutonic_Tamer on 21 October 2008, 11:34
After market HIDs are not illegal as long as they pass the beam alignment test.

Sorry, but that is absolute bollox.

Washers are also not a legal requirement when fitted after it has left the factory. The washers are only required on cars that are built in factories (so standard xenons that come with the car)

Again, bollox.  Headlamp washers, and more importantly, automatic dynamic levelers are absolutely and categorically legally required.  It is both a UK and EU legal requirement.  Retro-fitting HIDs without the full OEM gubbins will invalidate the "Type Approval" for the car.  This will then invalidate your insurance (even if you do actually declare it as a mod), and will also lead to potential criminal prosecution for a breach under the "Construction and Use Regulations", and a breach of CUR is also a breach under the Road Traffic Act.

You cant fail an MOT for something you do not have to test, a good example is the spare tyre in some cars; if its bold just take it out before the test, if they cant check its bold they cant fail you!

A spare tyre is NOT a legal requirement - otherwise how come all these cars with "tyre mobility systems" (a bottle of slime and a mini compressor, instead of any kind of "spare wheel") can pass an MoT!

Correctly functioning headlamps which comply with the manufacturers Type Approval ARE a legal requirement, and a testable item.


I have aftermarket HIDs and it flew through the MOT last week. Its now passed in a Honda garage and my local garage.

Then you have just admitted to not only an illegal car, but also a dodgy MoT.  :rolleyes:
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Teutonic_Tamer on 21 October 2008, 11:45
The main point is the self leveling. Badly adjusted normal lights are annoying, badly adjusted after market HID's are a danger to other drivers.

Exactly.  The real crux is that a HID capsule generates its light output from an electrical arc, rather than the old skool heating a wire filiament to white hot.  Just like welders can suffer from "arc eye", HIDs also produce the same potentially damaging effect.

This is why don't want them fitted in the aftermarket. There is nothing stopping them comin gout of adjustment and being a danger between MOT's. Also the lenses need to be correct for HID otherwise the beam pattern is wrong and worse case they melt.

No, not really.  It is nothing to do with the "static" beam setting (though this is still important).  It is actully soley down to the "dynamic" correction of the beam - responding inversely to the pitching movements of the car due to acceleration and braking, along with loads carried in the passenger compartment and boot (a brace of ten-ton tessys from a scary beer night) and a few bags of cement in the boot, and finally changing loads of the car, such as burning off a full tank of fuel to empty.

And there has been no evidence of HIDs melting correctly designed headlamps.

99% of the time you can fit them to anything and you'll be fine but I understand why they don't want them fitted to any old car.

I disagree.  I would stick my neck on the line and state that 99% of the time, retro-fitting HIDs are illegal.  It is the exceedingly minor proportion who go to the trouble and hassle of actually fitting not only genuine OEM HID-specific headlamps, but also the washers and leveling systems too.
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Teutonic_Tamer on 21 October 2008, 11:46
yes there should be a self leveling piece of kit on the rear axle, which all OEM Xenon have to have, as for washers, not the end of the world.

Actually, BOTH axles need the level sensors, and it is the headlamps themselves which are "self leveling".  :wink:  :smiley:
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Teutonic_Tamer on 21 October 2008, 11:50
Intersting.

Quick question. Why does the UK have it as a law that washers must be present? Do you know?

Mike

Washers are required because crap on the headlamp lenses can cause the actual beam pattern to disperse.

I'm not re-typing stuff again, but read through this thread - which was my "infamous" introduction to the forum!  :evil:

http://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=53715
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Horney on 21 October 2008, 11:51

99% of the time you can fit them to anything and you'll be fine but I understand why they don't want them fitted to any old car.

I disagree.  I would stick my neck on the line and state that 99% of the time, retro-fitting HIDs are illegal.  It is the exceedingly minor proportion who go to the trouble and hassle of actually fitting not only genuine OEM HID-specific headlamps, but also the washers and leveling systems too.

What I meant was 99% of the time you are unlikely to be rumbled. MOT testers don't currently pick up on it and the fuzz are so rarely seen actually out stopping people you are unlikely to get pulled either. A VOSA check point might be a nightmare but again if it's a recent car and not an 80's or 80's car I doubt they'd notice.

The fact they are illegal I agree with completely.

nick
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Teutonic_Tamer on 21 October 2008, 11:52
http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=3552517

Is this one legal or illegal?

Pity TT aint here to yell and scream  :evil:.

Mike


As others have stated, providing it has the headlamp washers, and the headlamps are the proper OEM units specifically designed for the HID bulbs (which it seems they are) - then they are legal.  :smiley:

Oh, and the auto leveling system is correctly calibrated.  :wink:

Welcome back Mr T_T  :smiley:

Ta.  :smiley:

Still not "firing on all four cylinders" though, if you get my drift.  :sick:
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Teutonic_Tamer on 21 October 2008, 11:55
I dont actually know. But would that mean that technically our car is illegal?

So are you saying that your GTI has factory-fitted HID Bi-Xenons, but does not have the headlamp washers?  :huh:  The actual washers are "hidden" in the front bumper, and only "pop up" when the headlamps are on, and the windscreen washer is activated.

Post a pic of your front end if you ain't sure.  :smiley:
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: 08micsta on 21 October 2008, 12:11
TT. The car has factory fitted Xenon lights. Never have any washers ever jumped out and spraye the lights... The panels you speak of are there. But thats it. Piccie:

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x255/08micsta/07gu5.jpg)

he he oops I mean:

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x255/08micsta/PICT0189.jpg)

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x255/08micsta/PICT0231.jpg)

Must I give a stealer a call and ask?

Mike
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Teutonic_Tamer on 21 October 2008, 12:11

99% of the time you can fit them to anything and you'll be fine but I understand why they don't want them fitted to any old car.

I disagree.  I would stick my neck on the line and state that 99% of the time, retro-fitting HIDs are illegal.  It is the exceedingly minor proportion who go to the trouble and hassle of actually fitting not only genuine OEM HID-specific headlamps, but also the washers and leveling systems too.

What I meant was 99% of the time you are unlikely to be rumbled.

Ahh, OK.  True.

MOT testers don't currently pick up on it

But they are supposed to.  VOSA issued instructions to all MoT testing stations about 2 years ago on this very specific area.  If testers choose to turn a "blind eye" - scuse the dreadful but appropriate pun, then that is their test station licence at risk.

It only takes a disgruntled car owner to shop someone when they have been on the receiveing end of a dodgy MoT from a 2nd hand car sale.  I've been there, done that, got the T-shirt, and the result was one loss of VOSA MoT testing licence (not just the MoT tester himself, but the entire garage had their licence revoked, and still don't have it back).  And I felt totally justified in my actions, becuase a car which had supposedly passed an MoT one day earlier had rear shocks which were pi$$ing oil, and front pads on the metal.  :angry:

and the fuzz are so rarely seen actually out stopping people you are unlikely to get pulled either.

Hmmmmm . . . you may be right, but it only takes one stop.  And there was a joint campain by VOSA and the Government DfT which instructed the fuzz to crack down on these.

A VOSA check point might be a nightmare but again if it's a recent car and not an 80's or 80's car I doubt they'd notice.

I can't agree there.  VOSA do actually employ some very technically proficient peeps, and they are generally extremely thorough in their inspections.  And add to that they usually work with the Police in attendence, if you do happend to get stopped, be prepared for having the book thrown at you.

The fact they are illegal I agree with completely.

OK, cool.  :smiley:
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Teutonic_Tamer on 21 October 2008, 12:49
Mike, you have the two-piece trim in the front bumper.  Look at this gif to see what they look like then working
(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t108/Teutonic_Tamer/Golf%20V/Headlampwasher.gif)

(Link to the full size image - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Headlampwasher.gif)

Try and get a trim tool, or credit card, and lift the trim upwards, and see if the actuall washer jet has been fitted.  It takes quite a bit of effort, as the return spring is quite strong, though.

But a trip to your stealer does seem in order, unless you have, or know someone with VAG-COM.
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: 08micsta on 21 October 2008, 12:54
Thanks TT. Can someone post a Uk front end for me please?

Mike
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Top Cat on 21 October 2008, 13:13
Funny you should mention that, this guy popped up Yesterday, i know there not the same but there is a bit of a discussion on the legality.


                           http://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=95314.0

Can i just bump this thread back up anybody want to laugh there heads off.  ^^^  :grin: :grin: :grin: :grin: :grin: :grin: :grin:
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Jkctr on 21 October 2008, 13:14
After market HIDs are not illegal as long as they pass the beam alignment test.

Sorry, but that is absolute bollox.

Washers are also not a legal requirement when fitted after it has left the factory. The washers are only required on cars that are built in factories (so standard xenons that come with the car)

Again, bollox.  Headlamp washers, and more importantly, automatic dynamic levelers are absolutely and categorically legally required.  It is both a UK and EU legal requirement.  Retro-fitting HIDs without the full OEM gubbins will invalidate the "Type Approval" for the car.  This will then invalidate your insurance (even if you do actually declare it as a mod), and will also lead to potential criminal prosecution for a breach under the "Construction and Use Regulations", and a breach of CUR is also a breach under the Road Traffic Act.

You cant fail an MOT for something you do not have to test, a good example is the spare tyre in some cars; if its bold just take it out before the test, if they cant check its bold they cant fail you!

A spare tyre is NOT a legal requirement - otherwise how come all these cars with "tyre mobility systems" (a bottle of slime and a mini compressor, instead of any kind of "spare wheel") can pass an MoT!

Correctly functioning headlamps which comply with the manufacturers Type Approval ARE a legal requirement, and a testable item.


I have aftermarket HIDs and it flew through the MOT last week. Its now passed in a Honda garage and my local garage.

Then you have just admitted to not only an illegal car, but also a dodgy MoT.  :rolleyes:

Firstly, telling me im admitting to something illegal when an 80+ thread on street racing is only a few posts up is abit silly. My HIDs wont kill anyone, spinning out at 100mph while racing will.

Anyway, yes you are correct. My information was from a few threads which i searched for and didnt look at properly (they were dated 2007) so apologies for the false information, at the time this was theoretically correct due to loopholes (although i agree, illegal and so yes incorrect)

There is alot of loopholes currently surrounding aftermarket HIDs and even factory fit HIDs, as you say headlamp washers are a legal requirement; how is it then that the integra DC5 is legally imported to the country and they come with HIDs as standard with no headlamp washers (as does the JDM ep3) My lights are technically legal as they pass the beam scatter test, unfortunatly most MOT testers (also police) dont realise the actual legal requirement involving HIDs. Also without a complete list of cars that roll out the factory with xenons fitted with all the correct legal parts its impossible to do anything, how would a police officer or mot tester tell someone in a DC5 they cant drive their car with HIDs when it came as standard?

The fact is unless they stop places like hids4u and other similar sites/traders selling aftermarket HIDs and release every car that has been made with HIDs/xenons as standard (inc plate/vin number) its will be very hard to stop them being fitted to cars.

All i know is my car is much safer as i can see much better at night, and i have never had anyone flash me in the last year i have had them.
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Horney on 21 October 2008, 13:25
how would a police officer or mot tester tell someone in a DC5 they cant drive their car with HIDs when it came as standard?

The sam eway they can tell someone with an imported yank tank they can't drive on UK roads with flashing red indicators or a person with a jap import that they can't drve without a fog light. Imported cars have to pass a test to be registered in this country. I suspect the HID's are let through due to them not bein gin the current test for imported cars but I don't know the rules on that. I do know that flashing red indicators on yanks and no fog light on jap is a fail.

Nick
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Teutonic_Tamer on 21 October 2008, 13:34
Thanks TT. Can someone post a Uk front end for me please?

UK front ends look exactly the same as what you have posted!  :huh:

Does your car have a "Type Approval" sticker?  Normally it is black with white lettering, and is found on the bottom of the "B" pillar when both doors are open.  If you find it, look to see if it shows the EU approval number.
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: 08micsta on 21 October 2008, 13:44
Sorry... My head is a little zoned at the moment.  :laugh:

I remember there being a sticker of sorts but the car is 50km away at the moment so wont be looking too soon. Will call VW Tomorrow and ask them.

Mike
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: 182_blue on 21 October 2008, 14:06

Try and get a trim tool, or credit card, and lift the trim upwards, and see if the actuall washer jet has been fitted.  It takes quite a bit of effort, as the return spring is quite strong, though.

But a trip to your stealer does seem in order, unless you have, or know someone with VAG-COM.
TT can i ask a question, is it ok just to pull the head out ?, will it damage anything (just for future reference)
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Teutonic_Tamer on 21 October 2008, 14:11
After market HIDs are not illegal as long as they pass the beam alignment test.

Sorry, but that is absolute bollox.

Washers are also not a legal requirement when fitted after it has left the factory. The washers are only required on cars that are built in factories (so standard xenons that come with the car)

Again, bollox.  Headlamp washers, and more importantly, automatic dynamic levelers are absolutely and categorically legally required.  It is both a UK and EU legal requirement.  Retro-fitting HIDs without the full OEM gubbins will invalidate the "Type Approval" for the car.  This will then invalidate your insurance (even if you do actually declare it as a mod), and will also lead to potential criminal prosecution for a breach under the "Construction and Use Regulations", and a breach of CUR is also a breach under the Road Traffic Act.

You cant fail an MOT for something you do not have to test, a good example is the spare tyre in some cars; if its bold just take it out before the test, if they cant check its bold they cant fail you!

A spare tyre is NOT a legal requirement - otherwise how come all these cars with "tyre mobility systems" (a bottle of slime and a mini compressor, instead of any kind of "spare wheel") can pass an MoT!

Correctly functioning headlamps which comply with the manufacturers Type Approval ARE a legal requirement, and a testable item.


I have aftermarket HIDs and it flew through the MOT last week. Its now passed in a Honda garage and my local garage.

Then you have just admitted to not only an illegal car, but also a dodgy MoT.  :rolleyes:

Firstly, telling me im admitting to something illegal when an 80+ thread on street racing is only a few posts up is abit silly. My HIDs wont kill anyone, spinning out at 100mph while racing will.

If you actually read through that so called "street racing" thread, you will notice that I have NEVER posted in that thread - so to bring that up whilst quoting my text is a bit of an "own goal".  :wink:

But onto the specifics of this thread.  HIDs, when incorrectly fitted or incorrectly aligned CAN cause fatal accidents.  Because the light generated is actally an "arc", this has much more serious adverse effects on the human retina (I can't speak for hedgehogs, badgers, or other roadside animals - but then they don't drive cars, nor fit illegal HID kits) - and cause much longer temporary blindness.  And just like you should never look directly at an arc welder, or lightning, you should never look at a HID beam.  A proper OEM HID lamp has a very sharp "cut-off", whereas these retro-fit kits have a very, very poor beam definition.

And think about the "excess speed" vs illegal HID argument you posed.  When driving, we all have a choice of weather to exceed the legal speed limit or not, and we all have a choice of weather to travel at an "excessive speed for the road conditions".  No, whilst I am not condoning braking speed limits in any way, I'm sure we would all agree that there are certain times and places where it is an absolute NO-NO to exceed the limit, but there are other occasions when, subject to personal acceptance of any fine/points - then there are contitions which many would deem "safe" to exceed the limit.  However, unless you never, ever drive in the dark or rain, then retro-fit HID kits are ILLEGAL and dangerous at all times when you have them on.

Finally, my father was very nearly killed in a very serious accident caused soley by being dazzled by illegal headlamps, and if there had been anyone in the front passenger seat, they would have been removed body piece by body piece and placed in a black zip up bag - all in the official police report.

Anyway, yes you are correct. My information was from a few threads which i searched for and didnt look at properly (they were dated 2007) so apologies for the false information, at the time this was theoretically correct due to loopholes (although i agree, illegal and so yes incorrect)

There is alot of loopholes currently surrounding aftermarket HIDs and even factory fit HIDs, as you say headlamp washers are a legal requirement;

I'm sorry, but these have always been illegal.  Just because the Government was useless at making the correct info easily available, it didn't make them "less" illegal.  There have been pleanty of editorial comments in the motoring press over the years, even AutoExpress categorically stated they were illegal a few years ago.

There are NO "loopholes".  For EU Type Approval, HID headlamp systems must use a specific headlamp housing, must have headlamp washers, must have automatic dynamic beam leveling - and must all be controlled by an ECU capable of being interrogated by the OBD-II protocol.  I can not see any scope for any such "loopholes".

how is it then that the integra DC5 is legally imported to the country and they come with HIDs as standard with no headlamp washers (as does the JDM ep3) My lights are technically legal as they pass the beam scatter test, unfortunatly most MOT testers (also police) dont realise the actual legal requirement involving HIDs. Also without a complete list of cars that roll out the factory with xenons fitted with all the correct legal parts its impossible to do anything, how would a police officer or mot tester tell someone in a DC5 they cant drive their car with HIDs when it came as standard?

But your lights are NOT legal.  Just because you happen to have an MoT certificate in your hands, it categorically does NOT vouch for the legality of your car.  By retro-fitting your HID kit, you have now invalidated your "Type Approval", which then means your car no longer complies with the UK Construction and Use Regs.  And to use a car on UK public roads which breaches CUR also means you also commit an offence under the Road Traffic Act - which means the Courts could ban you from driving, and order your car to be crushed.

And you really do not know anything about the regulatory system in the UK.  Any Police Officer or VOSA operative can request an online link directly to the factory which made the car (or who certified the Type Approval certificate) - and it will list the EXACT specification of the vehicle.  Insurance Assessors also have access to this info.  Still think you can "beat the system"?

An regarding "imports" - I suggest you Google "SVO".

The fact is unless they stop places like hids4u and other similar sites/traders selling aftermarket HIDs and release every car that has been made with HIDs/xenons as standard (inc plate/vin number) its will be very hard to stop them being fitted to cars.

But "e-commerce", ie web trading is not regulated in the same way that a shop or dealer are.  Secondly, the actual process of selling the stuff is NOT illegal.  It is the actual fitting of the stuff to the car which then makes the car illegal.  Just because my RS4 can travel at a top speed of 171 mph, does that make it illegal if I stick to the speed limits?

All i know is my car is much safer as i can see much better at night, and i have never had anyone flash me in the last year i have had them.

But that is your opinion.  However, the simple fact remains that your car IS illegal.  What if you drove along the M1 motorway at 90mph, and passed a copper without getting nicked - does that mean that it is now legal to drive at 90 on the M1 ???
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Teutonic_Tamer on 21 October 2008, 14:13
how would a police officer or mot tester tell someone in a DC5 they cant drive their car with HIDs when it came as standard?

The sam eway they can tell someone with an imported yank tank they can't drive on UK roads with flashing red indicators or a person with a jap import that they can't drve without a fog light. Imported cars have to pass a test to be registered in this country. I suspect the HID's are let through due to them not bein gin the current test for imported cars but I don't know the rules on that. I do know that flashing red indicators on yanks and no fog light on jap is a fail.

Nick

Spot on.  The same happens if I were to take my CBR into Germany, complete with my nice loud Micron race can - the German plod couldn't nick me, but if it were on a german registered bike, then they would be done for it.
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Hurdy on 21 October 2008, 14:15
Sean, you must feel a little bit better. Those last two posts were T_T specials :cool:
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Greenouse on 21 October 2008, 14:18
http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=3552517

Is this one legal or illegal?

Pity TT aint here to yell and scream  :evil:.

Mike


As others have stated, providing it has the headlamp washers, and the headlamps are the proper OEM units specifically designed for the HID bulbs (which it seems they are) - then they are legal.  :smiley:

Oh, and the auto leveling system is correctly calibrated.  :wink:

Welcome back Mr T_T  :smiley:

Ta.  :smiley:

Still not "firing on all four cylinders" though, if you get my drift.  :sick:

You mean eight surley  :grin:
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: 182_blue on 21 October 2008, 14:19
TT. The car has factory fitted Xenon lights. Never have any washers ever jumped out and spraye the lights... The panels you speak of are there. But thats it. Piccie:

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x255/08micsta/07gu5.jpg)

he he oops I mean:



Must I give a stealer a call and ask?

Mike

just one thing, did you have your lights on when you tried to wash the windows ?(which also washes the lights in the UK when you have headlight washers on)
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Teutonic_Tamer on 21 October 2008, 14:19
Sorry... My head is a little zoned at the moment.  :laugh:

I remember there being a sticker of sorts but the car is 50km away at the moment so wont be looking too soon. Will call VW Tomorrow and ask them.

Mike

Don't get it confused with the engine output sticker which is on the bottom of the drivers side B pillar!  :tongue:  :wink:
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Teutonic_Tamer on 21 October 2008, 14:22

Try and get a trim tool, or credit card, and lift the trim upwards, and see if the actuall washer jet has been fitted.  It takes quite a bit of effort, as the return spring is quite strong, though.

But a trip to your stealer does seem in order, unless you have, or know someone with VAG-COM.
TT can i ask a question, is it ok just to pull the head out ?, will it damage anything (just for future reference)

No, it is perfectly fine to pull the head section out.  You just have to watch your knuckles - even with latex gloves on, some hard plastic edges tend to take a little nibble of your skin.  It is what you have to do to adjust the aim of the jets.  It's a good idea to clean the gunge out from behind them too.
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Teutonic_Tamer on 21 October 2008, 14:23
Sean, you must feel a little bit better. Those last two posts were T_T specials :cool:

Nursey, it is soon time for my medication again!  :tongue:  :grin:
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: 2007GTI on 21 October 2008, 14:23
Im having some serious De Ja Vue, isn't anyone else? good postings T T.
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: 182_blue on 21 October 2008, 14:31

Try and get a trim tool, or credit card, and lift the trim upwards, and see if the actuall washer jet has been fitted.  It takes quite a bit of effort, as the return spring is quite strong, though.

But a trip to your stealer does seem in order, unless you have, or know someone with VAG-COM.
TT can i ask a question, is it ok just to pull the head out ?, will it damage anything (just for future reference)

No, it is perfectly fine to pull the head section out.  You just have to watch your knuckles - even with latex gloves on, some hard plastic edges tend to take a little nibble of your skin.  It is what you have to do to adjust the aim of the jets.  It's a good idea to clean the gunge out from behind them too.

Thanks, its just one of mine sits a little proud of the bumper and i wanted to investigate it, as i dont want the cap to come off and loose it, i reckon its more to do woth the way the whole mechanism is held to the bumper though
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Greenouse on 21 October 2008, 14:38
Funny you should mention that, this guy popped up Yesterday, i know there not the same but there is a bit of a discussion on the legality.


                           http://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=95314.0

Can i just bump this thread back up anybody want to laugh there heads off.  ^^^  :grin: :grin: :grin: :grin: :grin: :grin: :grin:

Read that earlier!  :grin: What a tool  :grin: :grin:
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Jkctr on 21 October 2008, 21:04
Surely then, most mods at the end of the day can be hard to define as legal or not. The type of dash light in a car can be seen to be distracting, audio systems that breech noise regulations, front bumpers that would kill someone due to poor workmanship and fitting. Currently the laws surrounding the activities in a moving vehicle are ridiculous, it is illegal to change radio stations because of the amount of concentration you take off the road. I find it amusing they still sell cars with ashtrays and cigarette lighters; the amount of people pissing around lighting and smoking a cigarette is stupid.

At the end of the day is the MOT tester is going to pass my car then my car is road legal, its there responsibility as VOSA reps to do the correct procedures. To drive on the road you need an MOT certificate, tax and insurance. I have all of these and the last time the police checked it (while i had my HIDs) they were more than happy and let me on my way.

I think at the end of the day people should be putting alot more effort into getting uninsured (even though im sure you will turn it around and say im not insured, my mot certificate and insurance company say i am), un-liscened and dangerous drivers than worrying that someone had HIDs without auto washers. If you can be dazzled enough to crash on the road you shouldnt be driving! I have had people leave there full beams on, had the sun blind me when its come out from a house and various other everyday hazards and not been even close to an accident!

I would prefer to see the police catch real criminals and take down proper illegal drivers then go on a hunt for people with aftermarket HIDs.
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: devilman on 21 October 2008, 22:55
At the end of the day is the MOT tester is going to pass my car then my car is road legal, its there responsibility as VOSA reps to do the correct procedures. To drive on the road you need an MOT certificate, tax and insurance. I have all of these and the last time the police checked it (while i had my HIDs) they were more than happy and let me on my way.


firstly nice comments from TT, good reading.

secondly i would look on the back of your VT20, your green test paper. it state "An MOT test pass confirms that, when the vehicle was examined in accordance with section 45 of the road traffic act 1988, it met the minimum legal requirements for those items prescribed under the act. it does not mean that the vehicle fully meets all legal requirement or that it will continue to be roadworthy for the next year. it is your resonsibility to keep the vehicle maintained so that it would always meet MOT standards and be frere from other defects"

i don't get why some many people think, just because i've got MOT my car is now legal and no one can touch me.
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: 2007GTI on 21 October 2008, 23:07
Did you actually read any of TT's posts?

You aren't doing yourself any favours and are still in the wrong sunshine.


Surely then, most mods at the end of the day can be hard to define as legal or not. The type of dash light in a car can be seen to be distracting, audio systems that breech noise regulations, front bumpers that would kill someone due to poor workmanship and fitting. Currently the laws surrounding the activities in a moving vehicle are ridiculous, it is illegal to change radio stations because of the amount of concentration you take off the road. I find it amusing they still sell cars with ashtrays and cigarette lighters; the amount of people pissing around lighting and smoking a cigarette is stupid.

At the end of the day is the MOT tester is going to pass my car then my car is road legal, its there responsibility as VOSA reps to do the correct procedures. To drive on the road you need an MOT certificate, tax and insurance. I have all of these and the last time the police checked it (while i had my HIDs) they were more than happy and let me on my way.

I think at the end of the day people should be putting alot more effort into getting uninsured (even though im sure you will turn it around and say im not insured, my mot certificate and insurance company say i am), un-liscened and dangerous drivers than worrying that someone had HIDs without auto washers. If you can be dazzled enough to crash on the road you shouldnt be driving! I have had people leave there full beams on, had the sun blind me when its come out from a house and various other everyday hazards and not been even close to an accident!

I would prefer to see the police catch real criminals and take down proper illegal drivers then go on a hunt for people with aftermarket HIDs.
Title: Re: Golf V GTI OEM Xenon Installation Completed
Post by: Jkctr on 21 October 2008, 23:35
Did you actually read any of TT's posts?

You aren't doing yourself any favours and are still in the wrong sunshine.



:rolleyes:

I have not at any point directed this discussion in an 'im right, you are wrong' way. Quite the opposite if you bothered to read the whole thread and saw i admitted i was fully wrong. Please grow up before you post such useless comments, you sound like frank butcher.

My point is, its just too hard to stop it and there are much worse things going on with cars that are illegal than aftermarket HIDs. I find it pathetic to get so worked up about it. I have them on at my own risk and i will continue to use them as they make it much safer at night for me. I would have never made it back from Italy without them, as after 1300 miles in one day, i was quite tired as it got dark and needed my lights like you wouldnt believe!
Being able to see more clearly makes me safer, TT's opinion, no matter how factual, on the matter wont affect my or any other of the millions of people whos cars are fitted with aftermarket HIDs decision.

Also my vehicle passed its mot last year with my HIDs and i made sure i left it the same so it passed next time, which it did. An MOT is a document which proves your car is road worthy and legal. I changed nothing on the car before or after! As i said if the MOT tester chose to pass it, the police officer who saw them chose to let me go and the insurance company who have insured them, then that means im legal as im insured, taxed and mot'd and both the MOT testers and insurers are fully aware of my HIDs.